Basecamp Masai Mara Overview - Review, Photos, Rates & More
Basecamp Masai Mara is a unique and authentic safari camp nestled along the Talek River, right in the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve. This camp is designed to offer an immersive experience, allowing guests to connect with the stunning natural beauty of the African savannah and the vibrant culture of the Maasai people.
With a strong focus on sustainability and community-driven conservation, Basecamp Masai Mara aims to positively impact the local environment and community. At Basecamp Masai Mara, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Masai Mara, where the sights and sounds of the wild are just steps away from your tent.
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Accommodation and Amenities at Basecamp Masai Mara
Basecamp Masai Mara has 17 big tents by the river. They have comfy beds, nice furniture, and modern bathrooms. Each tent has a private deck where you can see amazing views of the Masai Mara National Reserve. There are also family tents with two sections, each with a double bed and a shared bathroom. The camp offers free Wi-Fi in the rooms, a private deck with a view of the reserve, and a big balcony for hanging out. Whether you’re alone, with a partner, or with family, our tents make your stay special and cozy in the heart of the Masai Mara.
The tents are set up along the river, giving you peace and quiet with amazing views of the Masai Mara National Reserve across the Talek River. In the morning, you can hear birds singing, and at night, enjoy the warm glow of a campfire. It’s the perfect place for a safari adventure. Here, you can relax and forget about everyday worries. We encourage guests to keep phones on silent and out of sight in shared spaces. But don’t worry, there’s free Wi-Fi and good cell phone coverage if you need it. The camp collaborates with the Maasai community for conservation efforts, promoting sustainable tourism and community empowerment.
Each tent has its own bathroom with two solar-heated showers—one inside and the other outside on the private deck. This lets you enjoy a shower with a great view. The tents can have either a king-size double or twin beds, and the family suite has two tents with a shared deck for more space. It’s great for relaxing after a safari or playing games outside in the evening. The immersive nature of this experience allows guests to feel a deep connection to the Maasai Mara and its sustainable practices.
The camp has a two-story lounge with a dining area on the top floor, which is a favorite spot for guests. The Migration Bar is a relaxed place to share stories with others. The main lodge is by the Talek River, and you can have dinner surrounded by the forest. Or you can dine outside with views of wildlife. The staff works hard to keep the area beautiful and eco-friendly, making sure every guest has a wonderful experience in nature.
Location and Setting
Basecamp Masai Mara is strategically located along the Talek River, which forms a natural boundary with the Masai Mara National Reserve. Nestled in a lush riverside forest, the camp offers breathtaking panoramic views of the savannah and the Masai Mara National Reserve.
This prime location provides guests with a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the Masai Mara, including the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration that passes through the area from July to October or November each year. The serene setting along the Talek River allows guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and wildlife of the Masai Mara, making it an ideal base for an unforgettable safari adventure.
Accommodation Options
Basecamp Masai Mara offers a range of accommodation options to suit different needs and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for all guests.
River View Tents
Our River View Tents are designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing stay, with each tent offering a king-size double or twin beds, a bathroom featuring bio-flush toilets and a solar-heated shower, and a private deck with a direct view of the Masai Mara National Reserve.
The tents are spacious and stylishly furnished, with free in-room Wi-Fi and a modern ensuite bathroom. Guests can enjoy the stunning views of the reserve from the comfort of their private deck, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of safari adventures.
Family Tents
Our Family Tents are designed to accommodate families, with two separate wings, each with a double bed and a bathroom with bio-flush toilets. The tents have free in-room Wi-Fi and a larger deluxe balcony for socializing, with stunning views of the river and the National Reserve.
The Family Tents are perfect for families who want to experience the wonders of the Masai Mara together. The spacious layout and family-friendly features ensure that everyone can relax and enjoy their stay, creating lasting memories in the heart of the Masai Mara.
Activities at Basecamp Masai Mara
One of the most unforgettable experiences at Basecamp Masai Mara is going on a game drive in the Sekenani sector of the Masai Mara National Reserve. You can cross the private bridge directly over the Talek River from the camp into Masai Mara National Reserve.
In addition to the classic driving safari, Basecamp Masai Mara provides guests with guided walking safaris (for ages 15 and up) and the opportunity to soar above the park in a hot-air balloon safari (available at an extra cost). Your photos will be truly spectacular.
Witnessing the Great Migration in full swing is an unparalleled wildlife-watching event. While the exact dates can be unpredictable, the months from July to September offer the best chance to see this extraordinary natural spectacle, with countless animals moving across the plains in what seems like a perfectly choreographed dance.
It’s no wonder it’s considered the seventh natural wonder of the world. The immersive nature of this experience allows guests to feel a deep connection to the Maasai Mara and its sustainable practices.
The camp arranges visits to local schools for guests who wish to learn more about the local culture and economy. Committed to promoting sustainable tourism and community development, the camp collaborates with the local Maasai community to focus on environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and responsible tourism practices.
These trips can be particularly meaningful for families, offering a chance to compare the experience with their own lives and helping children connect with both the community and the natural beauty of Kenya. In addition to these enriching and family-friendly excursions, Basecamp Masai Mara is an ideal destination for families with children. The staff is especially welcoming to families, and the camp offers a kids’ club called the Dorobo Club, where children can learn local crafts like making their own clothes and jewelry and engage with nature through activities like butterfly-catching.
Be ready for early starts—the early bird catches the worm, and this is especially true in the Masai Mara. Safari drives and community visits are scheduled for early mornings to make the most of the day before temperatures rise and everyone (and everything) seeks shade and hydration.
Dining at Basecamp Masai
At Basecamp Maasai Mara, we take pride in serving authentic Maasai Mara cuisine, using ingredients grown in our organic vegetable garden. Our meals are designed to showcase the flavors and traditions of the Maasai people, while also promoting sustainable farming practices.
Our garden also grows medicinal herbs and plants, which are used in our cooking and for medicinal purposes. We strive to maintain a balanced ecosystem and reduce our carbon footprint. Dining at Basecamp Maasai Mara is not just about enjoying delicious food; it’s about experiencing the rich culinary heritage of the Maasai and the bounty of the land.
Cultural Experiences at Basecamp Masai Mara
Basecamp Masai Mara offers a range of cultural experiences that allow guests to engage with the local Maasai community and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai Mara. Our Enjoolata education and entertainment center provides a space for workshops, lectures, and interactive sessions on environmental conservation, Maasai culture, and community development projects.
Guests can also visit local schools, participate in traditional Maasai ceremonies, and learn about the history and customs of the Maasai people. Our camp is committed to supporting local artisans and promoting cultural exchange. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the Maasai way of life and the importance of preserving their cultural heritage.
Safaris and Game Viewing in Masai Mara
The Maasai Mara National Reserve is renowned for its incredible wildlife and game viewing opportunities, and Basecamp Masai Mara is committed to promoting wildlife conservation and responsible tourism. At Basecamp Masai Mara, we offer guided game drives, walking safaris, and hot-air balloon rides (at an additional cost) to explore the reserve.
Our experienced guides will take you on a journey to spot the Big Five, witness the Great Migration, and experience the beauty of the African savannah. We also offer family-friendly excursions and activities, including the Dorobo Club for kids. Whether you are an avid wildlife enthusiast or a first-time visitor, our safaris provide unforgettable encounters with the diverse and vibrant wildlife of the Masai Mara.
